In addition to being focused, wildlife photography is a highly isolated experience. Hours in the field followed by time in front of the computer equal less time spent with friends and family. Along with social isolation comes creative isolation. Wildlife photographers are prone to falling into a rut and producing the same style of images day in and day out. To prevent stagnation, it is important for artists to seek inspiration from different sources. As a wildlife photographer I explore the work of other photographers, examine other artistic mediums (with varying degrees of success), and most recently I gain inspiration from the work of my students.

I am fortunate enough to make my living as a teacher. I teach students the ins and outs of digital imaging at both the high school and the college level. During these classes, students develop the skills needed to make image alterations. Once skills are mastered, each student designs a project that demonstrates their abilities. While I am the teacher, I have found that students have the ability to both teach and inspire me. Watching a student learn a technique and take it in a new direction is one of the greatest joys of teaching.

As an instructor, I am amazed at the work produced by my students. While each assignment has basic guidelines, some degree of personal interpretation is included to encourage students to incorporate their interests and creativity into the assignment. The results are difficult to predict, but impressive to see.

As an introduction to the New Year, I invite you to see what some up and coming digital artists are creating. While the subjects and materials are wide ranging (definitely not limited to wildlife or nature), each image demonstrates the student's skills, imagination, and the desire to produce creative work that goes beyond the obvious. The work my students produce is an unending source of inspiration for my own efforts. I never know what I am going to get, but I always know that looking at their accomplishments encourages me to move beyond my comfort zone and explore new ideas and techniques.

Inspiration can be found in many places. For me, inspiration is provided by my students. For others it might be found in looking at non-photographic art. The question is not, "Where do you find motivation?" The only important question is, "Do you find motivation somewhere?" I hope that your answer is yes.

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Chris Gamel has been an active wildlife photographer for the past 14 years. The combination of his biological research and photographic interests has taken him around the world. In 2001, Chris discovered the joys of digital photography and he hasn't looked back. Chris lives with his wife and daughter in Salt Lake City where he teaches courses at Weber State University and Salt Lake Community College. To see more of Chris's photography, visit his web site at www.Animal-Antics.net.